Encephalartos princeps (Kei Cycad) - A medium-sized to large evergreen cycad with a sturdy, erect or sprawling trunk to 12 feet tall, growing in clumps of up to fifteen stems, with new suckers produced freely from the base. It is suited to subtropical and temperate regions. These plants require full sun and excellent drainage and tolerate heavy frosts. It is native to the exposed rocky outcrops in Eastern Cape province, South Africa where it experiences dry, mild to hot summers, and cold winters with frequent heavy frosts. In cultivation this plant is most easily confused with E. lehmannii which differs in not having its leaflets in the same plane. Opposing E. lehmannii leaflets can be folded together flat while E. princeps leaves come together side to side. With age E. princeps is a much larger plant.
This description is based on our research and observations made of this plant as it grows in our nursery, in the nursery garden and in other gardens that we have visited. We will also incorporate comments received from others and always appreciate getting feedback of any kind from those who have some additional information about this plant, in particular if this information is contrary to what we have written or if they have additional cultural tips that would aid others in growing Encephalartos princeps.